Researchers have recently found that there is a connection between Small Intestine Bacteria Overgrowth (SIBO) and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Read on to know more about the connection as well as the study that led to this finding.

Affecting more than 10 million people in America, coronary artery disease (CAD) or coronary heart disease is a result of the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Plaque is nothing but cholesterol containing deposits that line up the walls of your arteries. These deposits are dangerous because they narrow the coronary arteries that are responsible for carrying the blood that contains oxygen and nutrients to your heart. Over a period of time, the decreased blood flow may cause shortness of breath, chest pain, or some of the other symptoms of coronary artery disease. Developing over several decades, this disease usually goes unnoticed till you have a heart attack because of a complete blockage in your arteries.

Angina or chest pain is the most common symptom of coronary artery disease and is characterized by pressure, burning, squeezing, aching, numbness, or heaviness in the chest. Even though it is usually felt in the chest, it can also be felt in the arms, back, jaw, neck, and the left shoulder. Contact your doctor as soon as you start feeling chest pain because it is most often mistaken for heartburn or indigestion. The other symptoms of coronary artery disease are palpitations, shortness of breath, nausea, weakness, sweating, and a faster heartbeat.

There are several diagnostic tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), CT scans, exercise stress tests, and cardiac catheterization that are used to evaluate whether or not you are truly suffering from coronary artery disease. The treatment plan for CAD includes medications, lifestyle modifications, and may involve some surgical and/or invasive procedures. Lifestyle changes includes quitting smoking, avoiding processed foods, and controlling your blood sugar levels; these changes work by lowering your risk factors. Some of the procedures that are used during your treatment of coronary heart disease may include stent placement, angioplasty, and coronary artery bypass surgery.

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